Chopta to Tungnath and Chandrashila trek is one of the most popular treks in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. The trek takes you through beautiful forests, pristine meadows, and ancient temples, and offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan range. In this blog post, we will explore the route of the trek, its difficulty level, and the top attractions along the way.
Route of the Trek
The trek starts from Chopta, a small town that is located around 260 km from the capital city of Dehradun. Chopta is known for its picturesque beauty and serves as a base camp for the Tungnath and Chandrashila trek. From Chopta, the trek takes you through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and deodar, and beautiful meadows of Bugyal.
The first stop on the trek is Tungnath, which is located at an altitude of around 3,680 meters. Tungnath is one of the highest Shiva temples in the world and is considered to be more than 1,000 years old. The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas during their exile, and is one of the five temples that make up the Panch Kedar.
From Tungnath, the trek continues to Chandrashila, which is located at an altitude of around 4,000 meters. Chandrashila is known for its stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan range, including peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedar Dome.
Difficulty Level
The Chopta to Tungnath and Chandrashila trek is considered to be a moderate trek, and is suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The trek covers a distance of around 5 km each way, and can be completed in a day. However, it is recommended to take a few days to complete the trek, as it allows you to explore the surrounding areas and acclimatize to the altitude.
The trek involves steep climbs and descents, and the trail can be slippery at times, especially during the monsoon season. It is important to be in good physical shape and have proper gear and clothing for the trek. It is also recommended to carry sufficient water, food, and first aid supplies.
Top Attractions Along the Way
- Chopta: Chopta is a small town that is known for its natural beauty and serves as a base camp for the trek. The town is surrounded by lush forests and meadows, and is a great place to relax and unwind.
- Tungnath Temple: Tungnath is one of the highest Shiva temples in the world and is a must-visit destination on the trek. The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas and is surrounded by stunning views of the Himalayan range.
- Chandrashila: Chandrashila is the highest point on the trek and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The peak is named after the moon (Chandra) and is believed to have been a meditation site for sages and saints.
- Deoria Tal: Deoria Tal is a stunning lake that is located around 22 km from Chopta. The lake is surrounded by dense forests and is a popular destination for camping and birdwatching.
- Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary: The trek passes through the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can spot animals like musk deer, Himalayan black bear, and snow leopard in the sanctuary.
Conclusion
The Chopta to Tungnath and Chandrashila trek is a must-do for anyone who loves trekking and wants to experience the beauty of the Himalayas. With its stunning views, ancient temples, and beautiful meadows, this trek offers a truly unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
While the trek is considered to be moderately challenging, it is definitely worth the effort. The trek takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region, and the views from the top are simply breathtaking. So, if you’re planning a trip to the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, make sure to add the Chopta to Tungnath and Chandrashila trek to your itinerary!
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